Scoliosis

The primary goal of orthotic treatment for scoliosis is to prevent spinal curve progression. Orthotic treatment is used for moderate spinal curves while an adolescent is still growing until skeletal maturity is reached.  Additionally, orthotic treatment can be used to support adults with degenerative scoliosis to prevent progression and reduce pain.

The two common orthotic designs are:

TLSO (Thoracic–Lumbar–Sacral Orthosis)
A TLSO is a low-profile thermo plastic brace, which is better hidden under clothes than designs with metal structures. A TLSO contains a pelvic girdle, which provides a base for the upper trunk component. A TLSO can be used to treat curves in the mid to lower spine.

CTLSO (Cervical-thoracic-Lumbar-Sacral Orthosis)                    A CTLSO typically utilizes a low-profile plastic shell to stabilize and support the pelvis, back, neck and occasionally the head.  This spinal orthosis sometimes incorporates a metal frame in the design which extends up the neck.  A CTLSO is used to support weakened or damaged areas of the spine and to stabilize curvatures of the spine.